The ceremony which drew graduands mainly from the Colleges of Health Sciences and that of Humanities and Social Sciences, was presided over by the Chancellor, Dr. Vijoo Rattansi while the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Dr. Fred Matiang’i was the chief guest.

In his speech, Dr. Matiang’i challenged universities to streamline their systems of operation. The Cabinet Secretaty singled out the importance of good record keeping tackling the menace of missing or lost students’ examinations marks. He revealed that the ministry was looking at ways of improving the quality of programmes offered in the universities. Dr. Matiang’i also challenged universities to uphold the integrity of the examinations processes.

In an inspiring and passionate speech, Dr. Rattansi celebrated the great achievements of the graduands. “The road, no doubt, has been long and wearying but most of our graduands met every challenge with a measure of enthusiasm, positive attitude and an undying spirit,” she said. “Your crowning moment is at hand and I am humbled to be with you on this happy occasion.”

Dr. Rattansi also paid tribute to Dr. Idle Farah on completion of his tour as the Chairman of Council. She thanked him for his distinguished and dedicated service to the University.

“While Dr. Idle’s time at the helm of the Council has been marked by huge challenges, he and his team of wise men and women did not fall short whenever able stewardship was required,” she said.

“I challenge you to pen your memoirs of this phase of your life and enrich the body of university governance. We wish you only the very best as you transit from the university to your next station.”

The Chairman of Council, Dr. Idle Farah applauded the graduands on their achievements. He told them that in whatever they did wherever they went to always keep time and more importantly keep their word and success will be theirs for the taking.

Dr. Farah confirmed that the 56th graduation ceremony marked the end of his tour of duty as Chairman of Council having served on the University of Nairobi Council for 12 years. His term ends February 2017 following his appointment as chairman in February 2013.

“It is a twelve years that can only be described as an epic journey,” he said. “I sincerely thank the Government for according me the opportunity to serve my country and my alma mater. I am also grateful for the support I have received from my fellow council members, the university management, senate, staff and students.”

On his part, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peter Mbithi congratulated the graduands, urging them to be UoN’s goodwill ambassadors in the market as they pursue their careers. Prof. Mbithi also celebrated the members of staff who have been involved in high profile research, negotiating beneficial memoranda with various institutions and development partners, locally and abroad. He said that through their efforts, the University has continued to improve the research and academic quality, playing an increasingly more relevant role in providing sustainable development solutions for Kenya and the global community.

The Vice-Chancellor thanked the University Council for providing the policy framework, strategic direction and stewardship, the Government of Kenya, through the Ministry of Education, for its continued strong support and guidance to the University and its leadership. He also appreciated the faculty and staff for serving the University diligently